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Specialization occurred during the process that moved from unicellular organisms to multicellular organisms. Selection pressures favored having numerous distinct cells that work in tandem over individual cells that did not and then further cells that were in complete union with each other over those that work in tandem. There are a number of intermediate steps between unicellular and multicellular organisms. Probably the most clear "midway" point is the colonial organism of which the extant Volvox is one of the best examples. (Admittedly Volvox itself is only 200 million years to present old, so it is not a remnant of this transition, but is similar to what scientists surmise was part of the transition that led to the development of multicellular organisms.) In a colonial organism, numerous unicellular organisms work in tandem to achieve goals (similar to how geese fly in flocks even though each is autonomous). The required communication would select cells that more effectively communicate with each other, leading to cells that can function as part of the same organism. In Volvox, we also already see small degrees of specialization. There are distinct somatic cells which perform day to day activities such as motion and photosynthesis and germ cells which are primarily responsible for replication. Since no cell could adequately perform both functions well, this partial specialization is favored. In organisms performing more complex tasks, this differentiation in tasks would naturally be selected for enlargement. You can read more about it in the Royal Society report below.
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Multicellular organisms exhibit a division of labor among cells known as?
cell specialization
How do multicellular organisms begin?
multicellular organisms begin as a single cell.
Multicellular organisms are?
Multicellular organisms are organisms that consist of more than one cell, in contrast to unicellular organisms.
To identify unicellular and multicellular organisms?
Unicellular organisms are composed of a single cell that carries out all functions necessary for life, such as bacteria and protozoa. Multicellular organisms are composed of multiple cells that are organized into tissues and organs, allowing for specialization of functions, such as plants and animals. Visual observation of their structure and organization can help differentiate between unicellular and multicellular organisms.
Why are multicellular can be more complex than unicellular organisms?
Multicellular organisms can achieve greater complexity than unicellular organisms due to the specialization of cells. In multicellular organisms, different cell types can perform specific functions, allowing for the development of tissues and organs that work together, which enhances overall functionality. Additionally, multicellularity enables more sophisticated communication and coordination between cells, facilitating complex processes like development, growth, and response to environmental changes. This specialization and cooperation contribute to the diversity of forms and functions seen in multicellular life.
Multicellular organisms exhibit a division of labor among cells known as?
cell specialization
Which term describes a process that takes place only in multicellular organisms and where cells have different and specialized functions?
cell specialization
How do all multicellular organisms begin?
Multicellular organisms begin as a single fertilized cell called a zygote. The zygote undergoes repeated rounds of cell division and specialization to form different cell types, ultimately developing into a multicellular organism. This process is known as embryogenesis.
How do multicellular organisms begin?
multicellular organisms begin as a single cell.
Why is the tissue specialization an advantage to multicellular organisms?
Tissue specialization has an advantage for multicellular organisms because it can make organs or organ systems. Have cells that can specialize means the cells can cooperate to form these organs.
In what kinds of organisms is the cell specialization a characteristic?
Either multicellular or unicellular organisms. By the way are you using Prentice Hall Biology California because many of your questions are from the book? prentice hall florida actually
Why do multicellular organisms need specialized tissues?
Cell specialization is necessary to support multicellular life because multicellular organisms need different tissues. This means it needs cells to make up those tissues and perform different functions.
How would you distinguish a large colonial organism from a multicellular organisms?
Multicellular organisms are organisms with more than one cell, the cells of which are usually specialized. A large colonial organism is an organism of many cells that are loosely attached to each other and that show little or no specialization among themselves. Multicellular organisms are capable of surviving on their own while colonial organisms are not.
A cell normally undergoes apoptosis when?
A cell normally undergoes apoptosis when it dies. It is the process of programmed cell death that might occur in multicellular organisms.
The cells in a multicellular organism have specific jobs this is called cell?
specialization
Multicellular organisms are?
Multicellular organisms are organisms that consist of more than one cell, in contrast to unicellular organisms.
Which term describes a process that takes place only in multicellular organisms and wher cells have different and specialized functions?
The term is "cell differentiation," where cells in multicellular organisms undergo changes to become specialized for specific functions. This process allows for the creation of various cell types to perform diverse tasks within the organism.
